Under
Wraps - Redressing History is a textile-based exhibit acting
as a reminder that although women are absent from most written
histories, they played an important part in all aspects of life.
In this exhibit, clothes are used to represent history and quilting
patterns represent the role of women in history. The stitch becomes
a symbol for the written word.
Quilting played a huge role in the lives of women in nineteenth
century America. It was often their sole means of expression and
allowed them to air their political and personal views. Inspiration
for the complex patterns the women designed for their quilts was
to be found in all aspects of the world around them.
Traditional quilts and the patterns they contain told stories;
about the women's lives, about individual experiences, about shared
ideals and common goals. The pieces in this show also contain
hidden stories and secret messages: The Cope and Shawl
talk about the disappearing salmon stocks off the BC coast. The
Armour and Dress talk about the futility of war.
The Coptic Tunic and Kaftan tell the story of archaeologists
destroying unearthed textiles in their frenzy to find gold, jewels
and other items of 'value'.
The pieces in this exhibit are constructed using traditional surface
design techniques and all include a fabric element. However, a
major component of these pieces is bubble wrap. The bubble wrap
I have used is all recycled, like the fabric used in traditional
quilts. I have melted and painted it so that it is hardly recognizable
in some pieces. I have also used photographs, which are reminiscent
of the material used in friendship and mourning quilts. They evoke
memories of people, places and times gone by.
Under Wraps - Redressing History has been shown in public
galleries and artist-run centres in British Columbia, Ontario
and Ohio.
